Introduction: Why St. Martin’s Beaches Belong on Your Bucket List
Picture yourself standing on soft white sand, gazing at turquoise waters where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of salt and sun. That’s St. Martin in a nutshell. But if you’ve ever searched for the best beaches on this tiny yet breathtaking island, you’ve probably felt overwhelmed—there are dozens, each promising something different. Do you choose a lively beach with beach bars and water sports, or a hidden gem where you can escape the crowds?
This guide is here to make your decision easier. I’ll walk you through the 10 best beaches in St. Martin, highlighting what makes each one special, who it’s best for, and how to experience it like a local. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, snorkeling with tropical fish, or simply craving a quiet stretch of sand, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. By the end, you’ll know not just where to go, but how to plan your beach days for the ultimate St. Martin experience.
Understanding St. Martin: A Quick Snapshot
Before diving into the beaches themselves, it helps to understand the island’s unique identity. St. Martin is split into two sides:
- French St. Martin (the north) – Laid-back, chic, and influenced by French cuisine and culture. Known for nude-friendly beaches, quieter bays, and natural beauty.
- Dutch Sint Maarten (the south) – Energetic, with casinos, nightlife, and busier beaches. Famous for cruise ships, shopping, and iconic attractions like Maho Beach.
The great news? The island is small (just 37 square miles), so you can explore beaches on both sides during your stay.
The 10 Best Beaches in St. Martin
1. Orient Bay Beach – The St. Tropez of the Caribbean
Orient Bay is the island’s most famous beach, often called the “crown jewel” of St. Martin. It’s a lively, mile-long stretch lined with restaurants, beach clubs, and watersports stands.
- Best for: Families, foodies, and travelers who want entertainment and amenities.
- Highlights: Jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and vibrant beach clubs with French flair.
- Insider tip: Parts of Orient Bay are clothing-optional, especially near Club Orient, so don’t be surprised by nudity.
2. Maho Beach – The World-Famous Plane Spotting Paradise
If you’ve ever seen photos of airplanes flying shockingly low over a beach, you’ve seen Maho. Located right next to Princess Juliana International Airport, this beach offers one of the most unique experiences in the world.
- Best for: Thrill-seekers and photographers.
- Highlights: Watching massive jets land and take off just feet above your head.
- Insider tip: Don’t stand too close to the runway fence during takeoff—the jet blast can be dangerous.
3. Mullet Bay Beach – Calm Waters and Caribbean Vibes
Just a short walk from Maho, Mullet Bay is its quieter, more relaxed neighbor. Known for its clear waters and soft sand, it’s a favorite among locals.
- Best for: Swimming, families, and laid-back beach days.
- Highlights: Calm waves, natural beauty, and a few food stalls serving BBQ and drinks.
- Insider tip: Bring your own umbrella or shade, as rentals are limited.
4. Grand Case Beach – Culinary Bliss Meets Gentle Waves
Grand Case is famous as the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean,” and its beach reflects that charm. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the beachside restaurants let you enjoy French and Creole cuisine with your toes in the sand.
- Best for: Food lovers and couples.
- Highlights: Sunset dinners, snorkeling, and beachside dining.
- Insider tip: Plan to stay into the evening to experience Grand Case’s legendary food scene.
5. Friar’s Bay Beach – A Hidden Gem with a Local Feel
Tucked away on the French side, Friar’s Bay is quieter than Orient Bay but still offers a couple of charming beach bars. It’s ideal if you want a more local vibe without giving up on amenities.
- Best for: Families and couples seeking a balance of relaxation and convenience.
- Highlights: Calm waters, small beach bars, and easy access.
- Insider tip: Visit nearby Happy Bay, a short hike away, for a more secluded experience.
6. Happy Bay Beach – Seclusion at Its Finest
Happy Bay is one of St. Martin’s best-kept secrets. Accessible only by a short hike from Friar’s Bay, it rewards you with unspoiled beauty and peace.
- Best for: Adventurous travelers and those craving solitude.
- Highlights: Soft sands, turquoise water, and almost no crowds.
- Insider tip: Bring water, snacks, and shade, as there are no facilities.
7. Baie Rouge (Red Bay) – Dramatic Beauty on the French Side
Baie Rouge is known for its striking red-tinged sand and stunning cliffs. It feels more secluded than Orient Bay but is still fairly easy to reach.
- Best for: Photography, couples, and those seeking scenic beauty.
- Highlights: Vibrant sand, clear water, and dramatic views.
- Insider tip: The waves can get strong here, so it’s better for confident swimmers.
8. Simpson Bay Beach – Long and Uncrowded
Stretching for over a mile, Simpson Bay is one of the longest beaches on the island. Despite its central location, it rarely feels crowded, making it a peaceful escape.
- Best for: Long walks, quiet afternoons, and nearby dining.
- Highlights: Spacious sands, calm atmosphere, and proximity to the Dutch side’s restaurants.
- Insider tip: Head here for a morning walk before the heat of the day.
9. Pinel Island Beach – A Tropical Day Trip
Pinel Island is a tiny islet just off the coast of St. Martin, accessible by a short boat ride from Cul-de-Sac. Its shallow, clear waters make it perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding.
- Best for: Families, snorkelers, and adventure seekers.
- Highlights: Lagoon-like waters, beachside restaurants, and iguanas roaming the sand.
- Insider tip: Arrive early, especially in high season, as it gets busy by midday.
10. Dawn Beach – Sunrise Magic
As its name suggests, Dawn Beach is one of the best places to catch the sunrise on the island. Located near the French-Dutch border, it offers great snorkeling and a quieter atmosphere.
- Best for: Early risers and snorkelers.
- Highlights: Stunning sunrise views, reef snorkeling, and fewer crowds.
- Insider tip: Bring water shoes, as the reef can be rocky.
Comparing St. Martin Beaches: Which One Is Right for You?
- For families: Mullet Bay, Orient Bay, Friar’s Bay
- For couples: Grand Case, Baie Rouge, Happy Bay
- For adventure: Maho Beach, Pinel Island
- For peace and quiet: Simpson Bay, Dawn Beach
Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Beaches in St. Martin
- Not bringing cash: Some smaller beach bars don’t accept cards.
- Skipping sun protection: The Caribbean sun is intense; always pack sunscreen and shade.
- Expecting every beach to have facilities: Many secluded beaches lack bathrooms, food, or rentals.
- Driving unprepared: Some beaches (like Happy Bay) require hiking or dirt road access.
Tips for the Best Beach Experience
- Rent a car to easily hop between beaches.
- Visit popular spots like Orient Bay and Maho early in the day before cruise ship crowds arrive.
- Pack snorkeling gear—you’ll find underwater life at Dawn Beach, Grand Case, and Pinel Island.
- Explore both the French and Dutch sides for a complete island experience.
Industry Insights: Why St. Martin’s Beaches Are Special
St. Martin has become a hub for both luxury travelers and budget-conscious explorers because it combines two cultures in one island. Unlike some Caribbean destinations, it offers everything—from gourmet dining on the French side to buzzing nightlife on the Dutch side. Its beaches reflect this diversity, giving you the choice of high-energy beach clubs or untouched natural escapes.
FAQs About the Best Beaches in St. Martin
1. Are beaches in St. Martin free to visit?
Yes, all beaches are public, but some may charge for chair and umbrella rentals.
2. Is nudity allowed on beaches?
Yes, especially on French-side beaches like Orient Bay, nudity is common and accepted.
3. Do I need to rent a car to visit the beaches?
Highly recommended. Public transport is limited, and taxis can get expensive if you want to beach-hop.
4. Which beaches are best for snorkeling?
Dawn Beach, Pinel Island, and Grand Case are excellent for spotting marine life.
5. Can I visit both French and Dutch beaches in one day?
Absolutely. The island is small, and crossing the border is seamless.
Conclusion: Your Perfect St. Martin Beach Awaits
With so many stunning beaches packed into one small island, St. Martin offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re standing under a jet plane at Maho Beach, dining by the sea in Grand Case, or finding solitude on Happy Bay, you’ll discover why these shores are unforgettable.
The best way to experience St. Martin is to explore more than one beach. Mix lively, amenity-rich spots with hidden, tranquil bays, and you’ll get the full magic of this unique Caribbean destination. Pack your sunscreen, rent a car, and let the island’s sands guide your adventure.